VanEck Enhances Security of HODL Bitcoin ETF with Coinbase as Custodian

• VanEck has recently onboarded Coinbase as a custodian for their HODL Bitcoin ETF, bolstering security measures for their Bitcoin holdings.
• This strategic collaboration underscores VanEck’s commitment to safeguarding its digital assets.
• Additionally, VanEck made industry headlines by filing for a Solana ETF earlier this week.

Discover the latest developments in VanEck’s crypto investments, from enhancing Bitcoin ETF security with Coinbase to pioneering efforts in the Solana ETF arena.

VanEck Appoints Coinbase as Custodian for HODL Bitcoin ETF

On June 28, VanEck unveiled a significant upgrade to its Bitcoin Trust, naming Coinbase as an additional custodian for its HODL Bitcoin ETF. This agreement includes a meticulous set of terms and security protocols designed to protect the ETF issuer’s Bitcoin reserves. Coinbase, already the custodian for eight Spot Bitcoin ETFs including those managed by BlackRock, Bitwise, and Grayscale, fortifies its presence in the custodial space with this new partnership.

Ensuring Security Through Cold Storage

As part of the custodial agreement, Coinbase will manage VanEck’s Bitcoin Trust predominantly through cold storage solutions. This approach ensures the Bitcoin is kept offline, thereby minimizing risks associated with cyber threats. Bitcoin will only be moved out of cold storage temporarily to facilitate necessary withdrawals.

Segregated Cold Storage for Enhanced Security

According to the SEC filing, Coinbase will maintain dedicated cold storage addresses exclusively for VanEck’s Bitcoin holdings. These addresses, which can be independently verified on the Bitcoin blockchain, will remain entirely separate from other customer addresses. This segregation strategy aims to add another layer of transparency and security, ensuring that VanEck’s Bitcoin holdings are distinctly identifiable.

Moreover, Coinbase is obligated to document and recognize in its records that the Bitcoin it holds belongs to VanEck’s Trust. No withdrawals, loans, hypothecations, pledges, or encumbrances of VanEck’s Bitcoin are permitted without explicit authorization.

Rigorous Evaluation of Coinbase’s Security Measures

VanEck has rigorously assessed Coinbase’s policies and procedures for securing its Bitcoin Trust. Although these measures align with industry best practices, VanEck acknowledges that it does not oversee Coinbase’s daily operations, thereby accepting the inherent risks that some lapses might occur despite stringent protocols.

Additionally, Coinbase has insurance coverage against specific incidents like fraud or theft, which, however, does not protect against a decline in Bitcoin’s market value. This insurance is shared among all Coinbase customers. In comparison, during the January Bitcoin ETF launch, VanEck had designated Gemini as its primary custodian.

Advancing the Solana ETF

In another strategic move, VanEck submitted a Form S-1 filing to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on June 27, intending to launch a Solana Trust. This proposed Solana ETF aims to mirror Solana’s spot price and will be traded on the Cboe BZX Exchange subject to SEC approval.

Matthew Sigel’s Insights on Solana ETF

Matthew Sigel, who heads digital asset research at VanEck, expressed optimism about the distinction of bringing the first Solana ETF to the U.S. market. Sigel highlighted that SOL, the native token for Solana, serves a crucial role similar to digital commodities like Bitcoin and Ethereum. SOL is essential for transaction fees and computational services on the blockchain, enhancing its utility and trade value on digital exchanges.

Conclusion

VanEck’s strategic moves in enhancing the security of their Bitcoin ETF by incorporating Coinbase, along with their forward-looking initiative in filing for a Solana ETF, demonstrate their commitment to expanding and safeguarding their cryptocurrency investments. These developments not only reinforce their stance in the digital asset market but also offer valuable insights into how major financial institutions are navigating and securing the rapidly evolving crypto landscape.